The Queensland batsman has played 11 Tests for Australia, averaging 33.47 with a highest score of 184 against Pakistan.

Somerset director of cricket Andy Hurry said: "It has been important for us to act swiftly, but to remain pragmatic in identifying the best fit for our needs and I am delighted that we have signed Matt.

"Coming to us off the back of a title-winning Sheffield Shield season and having made a number of significant contributions with the bat, including three hundreds in the last five games, he will be arriving with us with a huge amount of confidence.

"He is a player who is highly driven to succeed and has demonstrated the ability to bat for long periods of time, but he also has the ability to move through the gears.

"He is a player of quality, is on an upward trajectory and we feel that he will certainly flourish in our environment."